WORCESTER'S only outdoor paddling pool will be open to the public today.

The opening of the popular pool in Gheluvelt Park, off Barbourne Road, is good news for children and adults alike who have been basking in the summer heat.

In May, the Evening News reported that the pool would only be open during the school holidays because of budget cuts.

Ian Yates, the city council's parks and cemeteries manager, said because of the cutbacks there was only enough money to employ one attendant.

The council decided to open the pool for the summer holidays only. This meant they could afford to employ two people to maintain the pool and ensure safety.

"Although we have fewer attendants and the pool will be open for a shorter time, the attendants will be running some fun activities for children," said Mr Yates.

"We will also be running the water jet fountains, which are part of the pool surroundings."

Mr Yates said it took around eight hours to fill up the pool, which varied in depth from one to two feet.

He said the pool would also be regularly maintained.

"Every hour we have to do a check and every couple of hours we have to check for foreign bodies.

"We also have to go round and deal with any bumps and grazes."